Christmas: Army Boss Laud Journalists, Solicits Robust Partnership

The Special Task Force (STF), code name Operation Safe Heaven (OPSH), on the 25th of December in Jos, the Plateau State Capital, held media lunch with Journalists to herald the Christmas celebration.

Speaking at the event, the OPSH Commander, Major General Rogers Ibe Nicholas, said the aim is to appreciate the Media for the role played in the out going year, by reporting the activities of the Command with best international practice.

He said the gesture is in line with the mandate of the operation which is people’s friendly approach to peace keeping, a strategy that has to a large extent paid off.

Gen. Nicholas explained that the media has been very friendly, adding that each time the Command is embarking on a tour to the troubled parts of its area of operation, the media provides coverage and reports same to the public.

“The media has always been with us in thick and thin through out the year; so we also thought it wise to celebrate Christmas with them, so we can share both in pain and joy”.

The Army boss also said that the Command is moving into the stabilization stage of its operation, appealing to the media for more synergy aimed at sensitizing the public on the need to be security conscious in other to stop the mistakes of the past from repeating itself.

“We are also consolidating on the peace in Plateau and some parts of Bauchi state, with the view to sustaining it; this has become imperative as it will help the region not to go back to the days of senseless killing.

“The present day government must support us to move ahead and the public must also play their role for us to sustain the gains accomplished so far; people are tired of the incessant crisis, let’s look inward and figure out ways to aid development”, the General said.

Responding, the Zonal Director, NTA Network Jos, Mr. Nurudeen Adesina, laud the Commander for his kind gesture, pledging Journalists continuous support to the activities of the STF and the fight against insurgency.

Represented by the Assistant Director, NTA Production Service, Mr Judge Agbese, Adesina called for sustain partnership between the Media and the Nigeria Army.